Can I take my electric car on off-road adventures or rough terrains?
Fancy taking your new electric SUV to a remote location but wondering whether it will be up to the challenge? Before you head off into the unknown, let’s delve into this type of vehicle’s suitability for the road less travelled.
More South Africans are looking into electric vehicles (EVs), with SUVs being a popular choice for their space, height, and all-round practicality. However, most electric SUV models currently available in South Africa are more suited to the tarmac than rough terrain. Plus, range is an issue, which is why EV owners don’t often undertake lengthy road trips.
Factors that determine off-road capability of electric SUVs
1. Ground clearance
This determines how high the vehicle can travel over obstacles or through water without scraping the bottom. Higher ground clearance is better for off-roading.
2. Approach, departure and break-over angles
These measure the maximum inclines or declines the front, rear and middle of the vehicle can handle without scraping. Higher angles mean the SUV can crest steeper hills and gullies.
3. Battery range
The continuous power demands of low-range four-wheel driving can quickly drain an EV battery. Generous range gives more flexibility for extended off-grid adventures.
Related: Are their charging stations for EVs and plug-in hybrids in SA?
4. Traction control and differentials
Sophisticated electronics that optimise power distribution for slippery surfaces can make a big difference when driving on sand, mud or rocks.
Off-road capability of electric SUVs available in South Africa
Here’s how some popular electric SUV models sold in South Africa stack up for off-road suitability:
1. Volvo XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge
With only average ground clearance and no advanced traction aids, Volvo’s electric SUVs are better suited for gentle gravel tracks than serious rock crawling.
Read our Volvo XC40 P6 Recharge Review here
2. BMW iX1, iX3 and iX
BMW’s electric SUV range offers decent clearance and available advanced traction control options. The iX3 and iX in particular have genuine, moderate off-road capabilities for an EV.
3. Mercedes-Benz EQA, EQB and upcoming EQC
Mercedes’ small electric SUVs prioritise road handling over off-road talent. But the larger, upcoming EQC (based on the C-Class), has above-average clearance and torque vectoring technology, enabling moderate off-road excursions.
Related: Read our Mercedes-EQA Review here
4. Audi e-tron and e-tron Sportback
Decent ground clearance and available rear-wheel torque vectoring give Audi’s electric SUV models modest off-road credentials for traversing gravel backroads and gentle trails.
5. Jaguar I-Pace
While agile on tarmac, Jaguar’s low-slung I-Pace lacks the clearance for anything beyond very mild wilderness drives.
6. Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo
This is not a car one would expect to see on this list, but the Turismo’s crossover skills include a dedicated Gravel mode that optimises traction control and raises the ride height when the need for driving on rougher surfaces arises. (See it in action here.)
So, can I take my electric SUV on serious overland adventures?
Most electric SUV models currently on the South African market lack the hardcore off-road capabilities required for advanced 4x4 trails. Factors like their limited battery range and vulnerable underbody components also make tackling such adventures a no-no. However, if you plan carefully and ensure the terrain is not too crazy, it's not impossible.
Related: Here are the different ways to charge an EV
For mild to moderate off-roading on gravel backroads and gentle trails, models like the BMW iX, Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo, new Mercedes-Benz EQC and Audi e-tron will get you where you need to go! Just don’t think that you can take on internal-combustion Landies and Land Cruisers just yet!
ENDS
